Living Now: Tips for keeping track of your medicines

After a blood or marrow transplant (BMT), medicines are a critical part of recovery. You might also hear a BMT called a bone marrow transplant or blood stem cell transplant. Taking your medicines as directed is important for your health, but it's not always easy to do. Creating an organized system can help. Consider the following tips and pick what works best for you.

A complete list helps you, your caregivers and your transplant team stay on the same page.

• Write down all current prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements.
• Keep a history of past medicines to avoid repeat prescriptions or interactions.
• Ask your transplant team for an updated list after each appointment.
• Store a copy on your phone and another in your wallet or purse in case of emergency.
• Use one pharmacy whenever possible so your pharmacist can monitor for conflicts.

The My NMDP app can help you and your caregiver keep track of your medicines. Download the app on your Apple or Android device.

Tracking your schedule in real time helps you avoid missed or double doses.

How to use a chart:

• Post it near where you keep your pills.
• Write down each medicine, dosage and the times to take it.
• Check off doses as you take them.
• Reset the chart each day for a fresh start.

Reading labels can be difficult, especially when managing several prescriptions. A color-coding system makes it easier.

• Mark each container with a different color sticker (but not the caps).
• Use the same colors on your medicine chart.
• Update your colors each time you refill a prescription.

Choosing the right pill case can make daily medicine management much easier.

• Daily pill case: A good option if your prescriptions change often. This is common in the first few months after transplant or during treatment for complications like graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). 
• Weekly pill case: Helpful once your prescriptions become more stable.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist which type of pill case they recommend. Check that each compartment is large enough to hold all your pills without crowding.

Even with a pill case or chart, it's easy to forget a dose. A backup reminder can keep you on track.

• Set alarms on your smartphone, smartwatch or electronic organizer.
• Ask a family member or friend to remind you at important times.

Having more than one reminder helps make sure you take the right medicines at the right time.

Proper storage helps keep your medicines effective and safe to use after transplant.

• Follow storage instructions carefully; some medicines need refrigeration or protection from light.
• Keep medicines in a cool, dry place and avoid bathrooms or kitchens.
• Store medicines out of reach of children and pets.
• Check expiration dates regularly and safely discard expired medicines.

Medicines after a blood stem cell transplant can cause side effects. Keeping notes helps your care team adjust your treatment when needed.

• Write it down: Record any new or unusual symptoms as they happen.
• Look for patterns: Note when side effects occur and how long they last.
• Know the red flags: Call your doctor right away if you notice severe reactions or symptoms they told you to watch for.

Tracking side effects gives your team the information they need to keep you safe and comfortable.

Medicine costs after transplant can be high, but help is available.

• Talk to your pharmacist about lower-cost or generic alternatives.
• Check with your transplant center for nonprofit or insurance support programs.
• Explore manufacturer assistance programs for expensive prescriptions.

Asking early about financial support can make it easier to stick with your treatment plan.

Managing medicines after a transplant can feel overwhelming and it's normal to have questions. Bringing a list to your doctor or pharmacist helps you feel more confident, avoid mistakes and ensure your medicines are working as intended.

Consider asking:

• Why am I taking this medicine? What is it doing for my health?
• What side effects can I expect?
• When should I take each of my pills?
• Are any side effects warning signs of an emergency?
• Which pills should I take on an empty stomach? Which pills should I take with food?
• What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
• How do I store my medicines? Do any need to be stored in the dark or in the refrigerator?
• Do you have any suggestions for helping me keep track of my medicines and the times I must take them?
• Do you have any recommendations on a pill container to help me organize my medicines?
• I'm having trouble paying for my medicine. Are there any resources that can help me?
• Who should I contact if I have more questions?